2017 Credit Program Changes

In January 2017, Pierce County Council approved modifications to the Surface Water Management credit program.

Existing Participants

All participants previously enrolled in the program prior to January 1, 2017 may remain in the program through 2027. Beginning in 2018 a gradual decrease in the allotted credit percentage will begin. However, only existing parcels whose annual credit exceeded $12,500 will see a reduction over the ten year phase out period. The remainder of parcels should expect their current credit percentage to be unchanged until they are ultimately removed on December 31, 2027.

Existing participants will continue to receive annual and five-year re-certification forms. Forms will continue to be sent out in early August and are due back by October 1.

Pierce County will continue to perform annual inspections of your stormwater facilities. Any identified deficiencies need to be corrected prior to resubmitting the form and the October 1 deadline in order to remain in the program the following year. Pierce County will deliver inspection results no later than July 1, leaving a minimum of three months to correct any deficiencies.

The Surface Water Management Utility shall use any revenue gains, resulting from credit reductions, to offset future rate increases for all rate payers.

New participants

New applicants must demonstrate compliance with current development standards. The application for new applicants is due June 1. This replaces the old submission date of October 1.

New applicants must complete the development process including the performance bonding period prior to acceptance into the program.

The credit percentage, or reduction in stormwater management fees, is now fixed 30% (excepting for rainwater harvesting systems which may earn 10%). Partial credit is no longer permitted. This replaces the old sliding scale of 10% to 85%.

The entire drainage system serving the site must meet current standards to apply. No longer will partial credit be allowed for a combination system - new combined with old.

Once a site is accepted into the program the credit term is five years. This replaces the indefinite term of the original program. Sites are free to re-apply at the end of the five-year period provided the site continues to meet current standards.

Continued annual participation is based on compliance with Pierce County maintenance standards, as verified by annual inspection, performed by Pierce County staff. The annual and five-year certification forms have been eliminated for new participants.

Pierce County shall notify participants no later than July 1 or any maintenance deficiencies with a deadline of October 1 to complete repairs in order to remain in the program the following year.

Right of Entry documents have been eliminated for most applicants. A Right of Entry form will still be required where pre-existing maintenance covenants do not exist such as with agricultural properties.